Tarlac City

Located at the very heart of Tarlac is Tarlac City, the famous urban capital of the “melting pot of Central Luzon.” Aside from being the center of the provincial government, Tarlac City also houses some of province’s most prominent historical landmarks, culinary attractions, and unique, adrenaline-pumping leisure hubs.

The city is home to Tarlac province’s highest seat of political power, the century-old Tarlac Provincial Capitol. If you want to learn about the history of Tarlac, the provincial capitol is a good place to start. Built in 1909, it served as the provincial headquarters of the Imperial Army during the Japanese Occupation.

Get to know more about Philippine democracy icons Ninoy and Cory Aquino by touring the Aquino Center & Museum. This modern structure housed within the Luisita Complex houses collections of artworks and memorabilia that tell the stories of Cory and Ninoy, who first gained prominence as a politician in Tarlac province.

Journey to the heart of Tarlac City and you’ll find the historic San Sebastian Cathedral, a place frequented by Pilgrims because of the exposed Blessed Sacrament housed within its chapel. And if you feel like doing some shopping away from the city’s modern mall complexes, head to the Tarlac Plazuela right across the cathedral.

After touring the city’s historical landmarks, try taking a relaxing stroll around Maria Cristina Park, a leisure area named after the Tarlac beauty queen Maria Cristina Galang. Those in the mood for a luxurious afternoon of golf can check out the private Luisita Golf and Country Club, one of the finest golf courses in the country.

If it’s an adrenaline rush you’re looking for, head to the world-class karting facility of Kart City Tarlac (KCT). Adults and children alike can satisfy their need for speed here by driving some exciting laps in the facility’s European-made go-karts.

Guests can also enjoy Tarlac City’s nightlife in Kart City Tarlac’s trackside recreational complex. This popular hub among locals houses several dining areas, karaoke rooms, and pub game rooms for those looking to have a fun night out with their family or friends.

Tarlac is also known for its delicious culinary offerings, so don’t miss the chance to sample some of the province’s flavors while touring its provincial capital. Travelers can feast on some of the freshest seafood from Pangasinan and Bataan in Dampa sa Tarlac or try the Western-Asian fusion dishes at the famous casual fine dining restaurant, Primadeli Ristorante.

You can also enjoy the authentic, home-cooked Filipino and Continental dishes of Paseo De Hilario, one of the oldest restaurants in Tarlac City. For a one-of-a-kind dining experience, try Good Earth Garden Café, a charming, forest-like getaway tucked within Tarlac City’s Good Earth Farms. Guests here can sample their unique organic dishes like malunggay pasta and tofu sisig.

Travelers can also wind down at Liquid Coffee, Bar and Restaurant, a well-known nightlife and gourmet dining spot in the Luisita Industrial Complex.

Don’t forget to pick up a few chocolate cakes, revel bars, and cassava cakes Urdu Restaurant and Bakeshop, one of the province’s household names when it comes to cakes and pastries. You might also want to grab some sweet souvenirs like Tarlac’s famous iniruban (special sticky rice cake) and tupig (grilled sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaf) on your way back home.